|
|
|
|
|
|
"I knew from de Vipont," Salisbury answered easily. "That is why I said I was glad I had come. I have saved you a useless journey. Ian wrote to tell me that you had arrived in Portsmouth on the twelfth and that he had decided to go to Winchester to meet you. I suppose Lady Alinor will come also, although he did not say so, and she has the children to consider. Naturally, they are both distressed at having disobeyed your wishes and desire to make their peace with you. They must be there already. Ian said they would lodge with the bishop there." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John stared woodenly ahead. Rage boiled in him, but there was no heat in it, only a cold deadliness that needed no vocal or physical outlet. "Who put that idea into his head?" he asked softly. "And how did de Vipont hear of my coming?" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Word went out from Roselynde. You must have meant to visit them there and sent a messenger. That was good of you, brother. Truly, I was somewhat afraid that you would cherish a spite against them. I came to welcome you, of course, but also to beg you to be generous in your dealing with de Vipont and his lady." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Just a few minutes ago you were warranting his loyalty. Are you warning me now that he will turn on me?" John purred. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Not de Vipontbarring anyerinsult to his lady." Salisbury's eyes shifted. He had hated to say that, but Alinor was very beautiful, and he knew his brother. "He is still young," Salisbury added apologetically, ''at least in that way, and very proud and passionate. No, the danger does not come from de Vipont. I am sorry for it, but I must say there was some ill feeling when word of whom you offered as husband to Lady Alinor spread." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"And how did that come about?" John snapped. "Did my loyal vassal Ian de Vipont cry it aloud to excuse his disobedience." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Now, John, you know there was no disobedience. I |
|
|
|
|
|